Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Have you ever wanted clear and radiant skin? Have you jumped on the bandwagon of going green? If you have, I found the perfect product for you!

Now let me begin by telling you that I have pretty much tried every product (high-end and drugstore products) and acne medication on the market. At 26, you would think that my acne would have banished by now. With hormones and stress going 100 mph, the acne has sadly remained. I acknowledge that I have been very insensitive with my skin and have damaged it with harmful chemicals; my skin has become dependent on chemicals and lacks any sort of "freshness" or glow.

For this reason, I decided to change my skincare products and routine about a year ago. To begin, I gave away some products I had barely used, and I tried to finish up some half-empty bottles I had laying around. I also begin to research organic skin care products that could rid or keep my acne at bay. On my search, I came across Eminence Organic Skin Care, and I love their line so far. Although I can't say that this line has banished my acne, I can say that my face has cleared up a lot and my skin is reverting back to my younger days. I also feel at peace knowing that I'm not slathering my face with chemicals.

As far as I know, products can only be purchased at spas, salons, and online (http://skinbotanica.com/eminence-sb.html). I really wish Whole Foods carried this line.

The products I'm using for my oily/acne prone skin are as follows:

Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser (Refreshing...)

Clear Skin Probiotic Cream (LOVE!)

Lime Refresh Tonique (I will probably switch to Stone Crop Hydrating Mist or Rosehip Tonique. I have seen more reviews on these products, and would like to try them out.)

Herbal Spot Treatment (Somewhat effective. You can also use the Hungarian Herbal Mud Treatment as a spot treatment, which I think is more effective.)

On a side note, I have been using rubbing alcohol as a spot treatment at night. Although rubbing alcohol zaps your pimples away, it is drying and I would not recommend it for the whole face. If you want a toner that will not dry out your face, I highly recommend witch hazel. I have also been using the Alpha Hydroxy cream a couple times a week at night. Even though it's not organic, it is very effective; however, be careful because it is also very drying.

If you would like more information regarding Eminence Organic Skin Care products, check out:

http://www.eminenceorganics.com/en-US/

I was sold after I read this...

"With the family business running strong, Eminence prides itself in hand harvesting, chopping, and packaging the finest natural ingredients such as Stone Crop, Naseberry, Pear, and Pumpkin. The products contain no parabens, sulfates, or harsh chemicals to adversely affect either skin or the environment.

With it's sight set on staying green, Eminence uses recycled materials for packaging, green production with solar and geothermal energy, wind power for facility offices, hybrid vehicles for couriers, and gives back to the local park projects, tree planting, and wind power energy funds in Eminence's new home in Vancouver, BC, Canada."-Skin Botanica on Eminence products

I hope this post encourages you to seek alternatives to your skin care products.

Monday, January 9, 2012

Michael Kors Watch, Women's Chronograph Gold Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet 38mm MK5055. This accessory goes with almost every look and at $250, it is not breaking your pocketbook.

Tory Burch Louisa Crossbody Bag. Not only is it a gorgeous bag but it is very versatile. It easily converts to a large messenger bag. This is my go-to evening handbag since I am able to fit everything I may need (i.e., my camera, makeup bag, cell phone and wallet).

I even sported my TB handbag on Halloween.

FYI: I dressed up as Minnie, don't mind my funky floppy "ear".

Tory Burch Reva Ballerina Flats (Black/Gold). These flats are comfy, ok not as comfy as TOMS, but work appropriate. Also, these flats are a great way to be fashionable without putting on painful heels.

Sunday, January 8, 2012

How did I not receive the memo? The flu/common cold is in the air and it seemed to find me hiding under my covers. What a great way to start the year? I'm finally releasing the germs that had a hold on me for most of 2011. Fortunately, there is always a remedy to most of life's "minor" illnesses and problems.

A couple of days ago, Jen sent me a link to Prince of Peace Ginger Honey Crystals. Jen told me that she LOVED this tea, and her mom would buy it for her whenever she was sick. First thing that came to mind was the fact that I really dislike ginger. When I was young, my grandpa would always force me to chew on raw ginger when I was sick. He would tell me that my throat would feel 10x's better. Each time, I listened with the hopes that I would be cured. To a certain extent, ginger did help. A few years later, my love for tea and my curiosity to try ginger again led me to purchase Tazo Green Ginger Tea. Sadly, my excitement to try this tea was short-lived. As a result, when Jen told me try Prince of Peace, I was a bit hesitant. However, I decided I was going to try it. Fortunately, I had a box stashed away with an expiration date of 2013!

When I poured out the contents and mixed it with hot water, the water turned into a beautiful creamy color. Soon after, the pungent smell of ginger filled the air, and I was hesitant to pour in all of the crystals. However, I did, and took a quick swig. Surprisingly, I loved it and will repurchase. The taste of ginger is just right and the honey is a perfect balance. Prince of Peace is a great winter drink!

Prince of Peace can be purchased at an Asian market or online. The box description says:

Instant. Individually wrapped bags. Makes hot or cold beverage. Prince of Peace brings you all the natural benefits of Ginger and Honey in our special proprietary blend of Instant Ginger Honey Crystals. Each bag contains concentrated extract from 12 grams of raw ginger which is the base for the appealing aroma and exquisitely smooth taste. Instant, soluble, convenient, and has no artificial additives. You'll love the natural sweet and spicy flavor!(For more information, visit http://www.luckyvitamin.com/p-3126-prince-of-peace-instant-ginger-honey-crystals-10-bags)